AH-64 Apache Vs Ka-52 Alligator, Which Attack Helicopter is Better?

AH-64 Apache Vs Ka-52 Alligator, Which Attack Helicopter is Better? – AH-64 Apache and Ka-52 Alligator are two of the world's most feared attack helicopters. AH-64 Apache is a twin-engine attack helicopter that was developed by Boeing for the US Army in 1984. The US Army has more than 2,000 Apaches in service. The cost per unit of the latest variant is around $ 36 million. On the other hand, the first Ka-52 Alligator was launched in 1997. The Russian Army has more than 100 Ka-52 helicopters in operation. The unit cost of the latest variant is around $ 16 million. The US AH-64 Apache and the Russian Ka-52 Alligator are generally regarded as the two best military attack helicopters in the world (with Russian Mi-28N practically near third).

Design of AH-64 Apache Vs Ka-52 Alligator

The Ka-52 Alligator has two three-blade counter-rotating rotors, making it very maneuverable. Russian media even claim to be able to rotate 90 degrees on the spot. Whereas the AH-64 Apache uses a more traditional four-blade single rotor along with a tail rotor.

Performance of AH-64 Apache Vs Ka-52 Alligator

The Ka-52 Alligator has a top speed of 196 mph, a maximum height of 18,044 feet and a maximum range of 683 miles. While the latest AH-64 Apache has a top speed of 188 mph, a maximum altitude of 20,500 feet and a maximum range of 299 miles.

Weapons of AH-64 Apache Vs Ka-52 Alligator

The Ka-52 Alligator is equipped with a 30 mm 2A42 automatic pistol, which is reported to be able to fire up to 550 revolutions per minute mounted under the fuselage. Six external hardpoints mounted on the wing can be mounted with a variety of weapons. These hardpoints can carry anti-tank missiles, laser guided missile systems, rocket launchers for S8 80mm non-directional rockets. The Ka-52K variant even carries Kh-35 anti-ship missiles that can hit targets up to 80 miles away. This also has

Meanwhile, the AH-64 Apache is equipped with a 30 mm automatic chain gun with a 625 minute turn. This helicopter has a capacity of up to 1,200 rounds of ammunition. Apache is armed with Hellfire air-to-surface missiles in fire and forget mode. The missile range is around 8 to 12 km. The AH-64E variant also has one trick on its arm, the drone. The new AH-64E can receive video and data from drones, and some can control sensors and drone flight paths. This ability will only continue to grow in the near future.

The Ka-52 Alligator can boast more firepower and more maneuverability than the AH-64 Apache (it also has a unique ejection seat), but the increased drone capability on Apache helicopters can really change the way close air support is performed. So it can be said that for now the AH-64 Apache helicopter has a battlefield technology that is higher than its competitors.

Sensors, Radar and Avionics of AH-64 Apache Vs Ka-52 Alligator

The AH-64 Apache is equipped with a millimeter wave Longbow radar, which can perform under poor visibility. Meanwhile the Ka-52 Alligator is equipped with a Radar mounted on a pole with two antennas for air and ground targets.

Defense System of AH-64 Apache Vs Ka-52 Alligator

The AH-64 Apache has a protective crew compartment between the cockpits in such a way that at least one crew member can survive the attack. The compartment and rotor blades are designed to maintain direct attack from 23 mm rotation. Meanwhile the Ka-52 Alligator's high level of survival is guaranteed by the pilot cockpit which is equipped with a steel plate that can withstand direct attacks of 20 mm projectiles. Fuel tank protection, controls, drive systems, additional power units are also highly armored.